Caring About Business: Carlos Cienfuegos Online MBA Candidate
The Pepperdine Graziadio online MBA program is designed to deliver the same transformational experience as our in-person program, while giving you the flexibility you need. That flexibility has allowed Carlos Cienfuegos to better serve his community.
Carlos was inspired to start his own nonprofit after seeing a need in his community, and wanted to grow his skills to manage it effectively. With his busy schedule and desire to become a leader, the online MBA program was a perfect fit for him. We spoke to Carlos about his experience as an entrepreneur and how pursuing his online master of business administration has changed his life.
What inspired you to start your own nonprofit organization?
"I saw there was a need and decided to take it on myself to fill it. So I started Sentry Living Solutions, where we serve people with mental and developmental disabilities. I have six employees, so it is a small operation, but it's been growing quickly, and we are hoping to expand. I have always been passionate about serving and helping people."
Why did you decide to pursue your MBA at Pepperdine Graziadio?
"Even though I had experience as a entrepreneur, people take you more seriously when you have the credentials of an MBA. In addition, I needed to know more of the ins and outs of running a business. I've learned many things that I have used and implemented in my nonprofit, such as our process on data collection for our clients, which I learned in my information systems class. At Pepperdine Graziadio, they believe in doing everything with excellence, and I took that to heart. The values that Pepperdine has that I share made it an easy choice for me."
What are some of the benefits of getting your MBA online?
"The online MBA program has been phenomenal because it gives you greater flexibility than an in-person program. As long as you are disciplined, you can do the work and set your own schedule. I can do something for class without having to go to a classroom, so it's very convenient, and it's much better for me while I'm running my nonprofit."
"The program has been a life-changing experience for me. I've gotten to know people working for amazing companies and doing amazing things. I plan to continue following the school's lead and doing everything with excellence."
About Pepperdine Part-Time MBA Programs
With coursework offered at our centrally located campuses throughout southern California and online, you can earn your MBA at the place and pace that works for you. Taught by hands-on industry experts, fully employed professionals access the full Graziadio advantage with relevant, experience-driven curriculum in small, engaging classes. Learn more about our Part-Time MBA programs.
About Carlos
Carlos Cienfuegos is the founder of Sentry Living Solutions, a nonprofit that serves people with mental and developmental disabilities in Oakland, California. He is currently a student in the Pepperdine Graziadio Online MBA program and will be graduating in Spring 2018. Originally from Venezuela, Carlos moved to the US when he was 14. He did his undergraduate studies in psychology at Cal State East Bay.